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How to Become an RV Inspector

RV Inspections – Why & How To Start

Did it ever cross your mind to become a certified RV inspector? An increasing number of potential RV buyers want their rig to have an inspection, and they are aware of the issues involved in RV. Before, some dealerships offered Pre-Delivery Inspections (PDI), but it was expensive and biased towards the sale. Even private sellers fail to provide that.

Statistics show over 65% of RV sales come from private buyers and sellers with no RV dealership. The buyer likely has zero idea of the actual condition of the RV.

Here’s where an Independent Inspector is needed. Someone who is not connected in any way to the dealer or seller. He will provide an unbiased inspection report to whoever requests his service at a predetermined fee.

CLICK HERE TO SEE A SAMPLE RV INSPECTION REPORT

Inspector Toolbelt provides a full RV inspection template to produce beautiful, professional, RV inspection reports

Responsibilities of an RV Inspector

An RV inspector should know about both a house and a car. Essentially, they are like inspecting both. An effective RV inspector must be knowledgeable of the following factors:

  • Braking systems, steering, and suspension
  • Collision or water damage
  • DC and AC electrical systems
  • Engine, transmission, and exhaust
  • RV weight regulation
  • Doors, windows, and roof condition
  • RV appliances
  • RV fire safety
  • RV interiors including upholstery, cabinets, furnishings, and facilities
  • RV air, furnace, and heating systems
  • Wheel and Tire condition all-wheel systems
  • Plumbing and water systems
  • RV exterior body and underbody
  • Propane systems

RV inspectors will usually inspect large Class A motorhomes, Class B campers, travel trailers, and more like a standard or commercial property inspection.

 

What happens during an RV Inspection

A pre-purchase inspection is the most common type of RV inspection, and this happens before they finalize a sale. A buyer will hire an RV inspector to know the condition of an RV through a thorough report and see in advance if it needs any significant repairs.

A pre-purchase inspection usually costs $150 to $1,200 or more, depending on the condition and especially how big the RV is.

Level 1 inspection – will focus on the visuals and are typically done in three hours.
Level 2 inspection – this usually needs more time to complete and is more expensive since a more detailed examination will take place. It usually involves sending fluids and samples to a lab.

When an RV is undergoing an inspection, they also take the RV for a road test, besides a thorough visual examination. After the inspection, the inspector will give a detailed inspection report to the client.

A thorough inspection report should include snapshots or videos of the inspected components, complete with notations of the status of each element. The inspector should indicate or highlight anything that needs immediate attention and repair.

Safety and emission inspections for RVs

Some states may require mandatory safety and emissions inspections.

Class A RVs – Safety and Emissions inspections.

Class B RVs- Emissions inspections.

Safety inspections focus on suspension, lights, brakes, tires, and anything else that may cause danger if left not in good condition.

State inspections are not as extensive as pre-purchase inspections. The main point is just to make sure that the RV is safe to drive.

Why do we need more RV Inspectors?

The RV industry is currently booming despite a slight decline due to the pandemic. This market will continue to boom as it is seen that younger generations are now getting more and more interested in recreational vehicles.

Every RV purchase needs a pre-purchase inspection. The growing trend of RV buyers means more opportunities for RV inspectors, especially for young buyers who have no idea what to look for when buying an RV.

Steps in becoming an RV Inspector

If you are interested in becoming an RV inspector, you should start by becoming certified with National Recreational Vehicle Inspectors Association (NRVIA).

Step 1: Completing the NRVIA certification course

A three-week(or 128 hours) certification course created by NRVIA partnered with the National RV Training Academy needs to be completed. The course is composed of three sections(40-hour each):

  1. Fundamentals training – Getting familiar with water heaters, air conditioners, RV refrigerators, plumbing systems, propane systems, furnace, AC, and DC electrical systems.
  2. Principles of an RV inspection – Students will learn to deliver a complete and thorough inspection report the skills in assessment and diagnostic analysis of RV systems. They will significantly focus on hands-on inspection training.
  3. Advanced RV inspector training – This part of the course will advance their inspection skills by applying industry-specific hardware and software. The training will also progress existing inspection techniques, skills, and methods to perform efficiently for the Department of Homeland Security and the Federal Emergency Management Agency (FEMA).

Once the three-week training is complete, they encourage you to attend a day-long NRVIA Certified RV Inspector Exam Review to prepare and have a high probability of passing the exam.

Step 2: Apply for an NRVIA Membership
The creation of the National Recreational Vehicle Inspectors Association or NRVIA aims to elevate the professionalism of RV inspectors and raise awareness of the importance of quality RV inspections.

Having NRVIA membership means having these privileges:

  • Having networking opportunities
  • Access to Sample agreements, report sheets, and other documents for business.
  • Member-exclusive continues education and advanced training
  • Gaining national marketing promotion and a Public Inspector directory that will help you be visible to more clients

After passing the NRVTA certification exam, you will pay an annual fee, and to remain a reliable member, make sure you meet their ongoing education requirements.

Step 3: Determine your business structure.

This step serves as a guide to those just starting or new to the inspection industry.

You have to decide if you want to join a well-known team or start your own business, whether it’s a sole proprietorship, a corporation, or an LLC(limited liability corporation).

Step 4: Invest in reliable software and an appealing website to manage and promote your business.
One essential responsibility of a home inspector is to sell yourself well by having an appealing website that catches the attention of potential clients. You need to know about SEO best practices and ensure many visitors to your website.

You also need to invest in a reliable software that will give you the edge among other inspectors as this will be easily accessible and generate a thorough report. It adds professionalism and provides a client with a good impression.